>All this discussion about dc alternator output
>and conversion makes me wonder
>why an engine mounted AC generator wouldn't be the way to go?
There are a number of belt drive AC generators that would probably work
nicely but the problem is all the ones I have seen require a constant shaft
speed. Usually 3600rpm, sometimes 1800rpm, to produce the 60hz required by
the A/C units.
One idea that came to mind would be to use a hydraulic drive. A pump
attached to the engine and a hydraulic motor turning the generator. To make
this work one would need either a constant flow hydraulic pump or a
constant speed hydraulic motor.
Maybe there is someone on the list who knows a bit about fluid power and
would have some suggestions as to if and where something along those lines
could be found.
But the idea is that a hydraulic pump has to operate over a wide speed
range (because its attached to the engine) while keeping the hydraulic
motor turning at 1800 rpm as it turns the generator.
I know that there are variable displacement hydraulic pumps and motors
avalable but I don't know of any that have a constant flow regulator or a
constant speed regulator.
Dave
73 Sequoia
>and conversion makes me wonder
>why an engine mounted AC generator wouldn't be the way to go?
There are a number of belt drive AC generators that would probably work
nicely but the problem is all the ones I have seen require a constant shaft
speed. Usually 3600rpm, sometimes 1800rpm, to produce the 60hz required by
the A/C units.
One idea that came to mind would be to use a hydraulic drive. A pump
attached to the engine and a hydraulic motor turning the generator. To make
this work one would need either a constant flow hydraulic pump or a
constant speed hydraulic motor.
Maybe there is someone on the list who knows a bit about fluid power and
would have some suggestions as to if and where something along those lines
could be found.
But the idea is that a hydraulic pump has to operate over a wide speed
range (because its attached to the engine) while keeping the hydraulic
motor turning at 1800 rpm as it turns the generator.
I know that there are variable displacement hydraulic pumps and motors
avalable but I don't know of any that have a constant flow regulator or a
constant speed regulator.
Dave
73 Sequoia
